As NSTA representatives, we had the absolute pleasure of being invited to witness the Forest School production of Hadestown on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th November 2025. Directed by Mrs Samantha Moon, with Musical Direction by Mr Sam Jackson, this adaptation of the popular musical Hadestown thoroughly impressed.
Hadestown, created by Anaïs Mitchell, is a complex and compelling musical that weaves together the Greek legends of Orpheus and Eurydice with the story of Hades and Persephone. When it opened on Broadway in 2019, it was met with widespread praise, earning 14 Tony Award nominations and winning 8. Blending folk, jazz, blues, and modern musical styles, the show delves into themes of love, loss, authority, and the tension between hope and fate. Its portrayal of the Underworld as a harsh, industrial world gives the story a contemporary edge and makes it especially meaningful for young performers, who must navigate its layered themes and complex characters.
Forest School’s production rose to the occasion with remarkable sophistication. The set design was outstanding, recreating the post-apocalyptic world with rusted copper piping, mismatched tables and chairs, and the atmospheric use of a thrust stage. Upon entering the auditorium, the audience was immediately transported into the unforgiving, post-apocalyptic landscape inspired by Depression-era America. The costume designers replicated the essence of the original West End show while ensuring everything was age-appropriate. The portrayal of Persephone, complete with a striking white fur coat dipped in green, was a beautiful homage to the original design. Musical Director Mr Sam Jackson – along with the student band – impressively set the mood and atmosphere throughout the night. The musicians displayed a high level of technical control and worked cohesively together to connect the audience deeply to the plight of the characters. It was fantastic to see such a phenomenal group of pupils work together so seamlessly to express the score that Anais Mitchell envisages for her performance.
What truly distinguished this production, however, was the talent and professionalism of the cast. Several principal roles were double cast, allowing more performers to shine while bringing fresh interpretations to the story throughout the run. From the moment Hermes stepped onto the stage, it was clear this was no ordinary school performance; it felt ready for a West End audience.
Scarlett’s performance as the show’s narrator Hermes drew the audience fully into the story. Her confident command of the stage, strong vocal clarity, and measured storytelling demonstrated both technical skill and an intuitive understanding of her character’s role as guide and commentator. Oscar’s performance as Hermes was also exceptional. Hermes has to be in full view of the audience at all times, serving as a narrator and guide throughout the production. Oscar achieved this with ease, weaving in and out of scenes with a sense of purpose and agility that kept the audience engaged. His portrayal of the messenger of the gods was a masterclass in charm, wit, and stage presence.
Lucian’s interpretation of Hades brought authority and controlled menace to the stage. His performance displayed a command of physical posture and vocal gravitas. It was clear that Lucian had thought about the minutia and idiosyncrasies of Hades and this was impressive to watch unfold on stage. Teddy’s portrayal of Hades was truly remarkable. The role demands not only powerful singing, but also the ability to convey a complex mix of authority and vulnerability. Teddy met this challenge head-on, delivering his lines and musical numbers with a rich, resonant voice that captivated the audience. His vocal performance was both powerful and controlled, demonstrating his ability to express the character’s emotional range while managing the demanding musical score.
Sienna’s portrayal of Persephone combined vocal power with charismatic ease, capturing both the goddess’s rebelliousness and the underlying melancholy of a character torn between two worlds. A standout moment was her vibrant rendition of “Our Lady of the Underground”. Her vocal range and interpretive choices clearly reflected a strong grasp of Persephone’s complexity and the scene’s shifting emotional tones. Eloise’s performance as Persephone was also extraordinary. Her portrayal of the Queen of the Underworld was a masterclass in charm, confidence, and stage presence that truly elevated the entire production. She brought remarkable depth and nuance to the role, presenting Persephone as a queen who ruled with wit, humour, and a hint of mischief. However, again it was in the vocal performance where Eloise truly shone. Her rich, expressive voice soared through every musical number, effortlessly conveying the character’s complexity and emotion.
The portrayals of Orpheus by Stitcher and Eurydice by Zahra were marked by sensitivity and nuance. These performers demonstrated an acute understanding of their characters’ emotional trajectories, navigating the transition from innocence and optimism to loss and despair with a maturity beyond their years. Subtle choices in gesture, tone, and pacing reinforced the unfolding tragedy of their story. Stitcher’s portrayal of Orpheus impressed through powerful physicality and emotional depth. Their performance was captivating, infusing the character with a passion and vulnerability that rivaled even professional productions, making Stitcher’s interpretation of Orpheus not just memorable, but unforgettable. Zahra’s portrayal of Eurydice radiated a striking vulnerability, making her tragic journey truly compelling. She brought a moving emotional honesty to the role, allowing the audience to feel Eurydice’s longing, her desperation, and the weight of the choices she faces.
The ensemble as a whole demonstrated exceptional dedication. Choreography was executed with precision, and group sequences showed strong unity and awareness. The cast consistently maintained characterisation in transitional or background moments, enhancing the world-building essential to Hadestown’s narrative structure. The ensemble “workers” of the underworld stood out with distinct personalities, transforming what could have been a generic chorus into a vibrant community of souls. The trio of Fates – Keira, Poppy, and Mia-Nicole – deserve particular commendation. Their ensemble work was synchronised, fluid and precise, creating the effect of a single entity manifested through three bodies and voices.
Forest School’s Hadestown ultimately stood as a testament to what young performers can achieve when supported by passionate educators and thoughtfully designed artistic opportunities. Hadestown exceeded all expectations – it truly felt ready for a West End run. It offered a memorable evening of theatre and provided a clear illustration of the impressive talent being fostered within the school’s Performing Arts community.
National School Theatre Awards
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